The Boston Celtics have been linked to potential trades for the past year or so because of all the valuable assets they have available. They acquired Center Al Horford by giving him a max contract in free agency this offseason and the idea was to pair him with star Point Guard Isaiah Thomas. So far the results have been mixed because Boston is currently sitting in 3rd place in the NBA Eastern Conference with a 20-14 record. Sources say the team wants to move Horford to his more natural position of power forward and to find a capable Center to fill the gap.
Sixers to trade Okafor to Boston?
The Philadelphia 76ers have been another team to have trade rumors swirling around recently because of their logjam at the center position. Right now they have Joel Embiid, Nerlens Noel, and Jahlil Okafor all vying for meaningful minutes in the rotation. Its been a foregone conclusion that one of them will be plying their trade in another city and it doesn't appear to be Embiid, who is quickly emerging as the face of the franchise. Nerlens Noel has recently expressed his frustration about his lack of playing time and everyone is saying he is going be the one to go. However, Celtics president Danny Ainge is looking for a more offensive-minded center, which puts Okafor squarely into play.
In order to make a trade work to everyone's advantage, another trade partner may have to be involved. Perhaps the Los Angeles Lakers.
Blockbuster 3-way Trade
The LA Lakers have started the season with 12-25 record and haven't really shattered any expectations. New head coach Luke Walton has done an admirable job of holding this group together in the extremely tough Western Conference.
The young core of Brandon Ingram, Julius Randle and DeAngelo Russell could possibly develop into one of the best groups in the league once they mature and get used to the rigors of the NBA. One player that is on their radar is Celtics guard Avery Bradley.
Bradley is coveted by many NBA organizations because of his all around skill set.
He's one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA and has the ability to score in bunches. Bradley is the definition of a "3 and D" player. He would definitely be a welcome addition to the Lakers and would help speed up the process of rebuilding them into a dynasty. The proposed trade would send Avery Bradley to the Lakers, Jordan Clarkson to the Sixers, and Jahlil Okafor to the Celtics. This potential trade scenario would benefit all teams involved, as well as upgrade their rosters.
